Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic Cancer Family Study
MD Anderson is enrolling volunteers for a genetic study of pancreatic cancer. We’re studying pancreatic cancer to better understand why people develop this disease. In particular, we want to learn about family risks for pancreatic cancer. We can use your help.
If two or more people in your family have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, you may be eligible to participate.
MD Anderson is one of seven institutions nationwide working to find ways to reduce risk for pancreatic cancer. These institutions make up the Genetic Epidemiology (PACGENE) Consortium. In addition to MD Anderson, PACGENE members include Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins University, Creighton University, Karmanos Cancer Institute, University of Toronto, Mount Sinai Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
What is the Pancreatic Cancer Family Study?
We’re seeking study participants who may be at increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer because a family member has been diagnosed with the disease. We are looking at family histories and blood samples for a possible gene or genes related to pancreatic cancer. If we can identify a genetic link among pancreatic cancer patients and their family members, we can learn more about the disease and, ultimately, develop methods for prevention and improved treatment.
Who is eligible for this study at MD Anderson?
Families who have two or more biological family members with pancreatic cancer
What do I have to do to participate?
- Complete a 50-minute interview with a researcher You do not have to come to MD Anderson to participate.
- Fill out a questionnaire about your health
- Ask family members questions about their health
- Possibly give a blood sample (about one tablespoon) one time only for use in genetic testing
This may be done at your local clinic or doctor’s office. MD Anderson will pay your clinic expenses for the blood draw, and also pay shipping for you to mail the package to us.
Why should I participate?
You could learn more about pancreatic cancer and your risk, and contribute to research that may benefit your family in future generations.
Specialists
Melissa L. Bondy, Ph.D.
Phyllis Adatto, M.P.H
Project Director
What is genetic testing?
From a blood sample, researchers may be able to determine whether you may be at increased risk of developing certain types of cancer. We inherit genes from our parents, and changes in our genes may occur over time. These changes are called genetic alterations, and they may result in cancer.
Researchers have identified certain genetic alterations that may place some people at higher risk of developing cancer. This is why some cancers appear to run in a family. If you have a particular genetic alteration, you may be at increased risk for some types of cancer.
Confidentiality
All information that you provide, as well as results from your blood sample, will be completely confidential. No one outside this study will have access to your information without your permission.
Learn more about your rights to confidentiality: Pancreatic Cancer, Research, HIPAA and You
Contact Information
For more information, contact Phyllis Adatto, project director.
Phone: 713745-2489 or 1-800-248-4856
E-mail: padatto@mdanderson.org